Jeremy Hunt highlights out-of-hospital care as top NHS priority

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt has pledged to "transform" the standard of care offered outside hospitals as his main priority following his reinstatement to the cabinet position.

Following David Cameron's election victory, the Conservative prime minister has confirmed that Mr Hunt will continue as health secretary, a role he has occupied since succeeding Andrew Lansley in 2012.

Commenting on his reappointment, Mr Hunt paid tribute to the work of NHS staff, while highlighting the importance of continuing to raise standards as the health service continues to move on from the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust safety scandal.

He said offering better care outside of hospitals must now be the top priority, highlighting the importance of expanding the services offered by GP surgeries, community care and social care in order to better meet the needs of vulnerable older patients.

Mr Hunt said: "I look forward to working with our brilliant frontline professionals to truly make our NHS the safest and most caring healthcare system in the world."

Responding to the appointment, the British Medical Association has set out six key priorities for Mr Hunt, including addressing the NHS funding shortfall, removing market competition from healthcare and improving doctor recruitment and retention.

It also highlighted the importance of maintaining safeguards for patients and doctors, restoring investment in general practice  and prioritising health and wellbeing.